Bralettes Are Having Their Fashion Moment

No matter which way you spell it, bralettes (or bralets) are more popular than ever. I see it in our sales and in numerous articles about fashion. So, what are they and why are they so popular?

Slate Magazine describes them as "the underwire bra’s kid sister." Bralets are much less structured than regular bras and are often wire-free, unlined and unpadded. They have the best features of a camisole with some of the benefits of a bra. Many styles are lacy and pretty, which makes them an interesting option if they’re going to peek out from your scoop-neck tank, a top with deep armholes or a sheer blouse.

Maybe it’s the onset of summer, maybe it’s just an unexplained fashion trend; whatever it is, bralettes are having their moment. They’re showing up on trendsetters like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner, who wear bralettes under open jackets or alone. They’re popular at open air events like music festivals.

I think some of this popularity can be attributed to the rise in crop tops and athleisure wear. It’s not that far a leap from leaving the gym in a sports bra or wearing a cropped tee on the weekend to going out in the dressed-up version, a bralette.

Manufacturers have been paying attention. They’re offering dozens of styles, from soft stretch lace to pretty prints and even styles that have underwires. And although typically designed for women who wear smaller sizes, some brands like Freya and Cosabella offer bralets for larger sizes, up to a a 38F. These have elastic underbands for support although not as much support as a regular bra.

I see many customers who prefer bralets because they’re comfortable, lightweight and unpadded. If you’re going for the rock star or celebrity look, you can even wear one under a sheer blouse, with an open jacket or on its own.